Undergraduate Minors

The Department of Physics strives to provide students with the necessary skills and knowledge to pursue successful careers in research, teaching or further study in graduate programs. Programs in physics culminating in the degrees of Bachelor of Arts, Bachelor of Science and Master of Arts in Teaching are offered.

Bachelor of Arts/Bachelor of Science

The Department of Physics offers programs leading to the bachelor’s degree in physics. A major in physics provides students with the necessary skills and knowledge to pursue successful careers in research, teaching, graduate and professional programs, industry, engineering and many other fields. Each student can plan a physics program with the help of a faculty advisor to meet specific future needs. The department also offers students opportunities in on-campus research and internships.

Students who are contemplating majoring in this department should be aware of the sequential nature of the course offerings. It is of prime importance that students consult with the chairperson of the department as soon as possible so that they can complete degree requirements in four years.

Physics Major

The Department of Physics offers two physics concentrations: a professional physics concentration and a general physics concentration. Both concentrations have a core set of eight physics courses along with cognate courses in mathematics and chemistry.

Double Major with Elementary Education, Early Childhood Education or Special Education

Students may choose a double major in physics and elementary education, early childhood education or special education for licensure purposes. Please contact the Department of Physics and the appropriate education department for further information.

Honors Program

The honors program in physics provides highly motivated physics majors with opportunities to enhance their academic program through intensive scholarly study and research designed to be of assistance in postgraduate employment or in the pursuit of an advanced degree in physics. Contact the Department of Physics for further information concerning eligibility and application.

Master of Arts in Teaching Physical Science

The Master of Arts in Teaching degree in physical science was developed for high school and middle school subject area teachers who have an initial license in and are seeking a professional license in the Commonwealth of Massachusetts. This MAT program is defined to meet the “appropriate master’s degree” requirement, which is part of the criteria for professional stage licensure, as set forth in the most recent Massachusetts Department of Elementary and Secondary Education licensure regulations.

Students should consult the Graduate Academic Policies section of the catalog for information regarding graduate program policies and procedures.